Neiman Marcus Chicago Set to Unveil New Men’s Store

Neiman Marcus (737 North Michigan) has been a Magnificent Mile staple for almost 30 years and it’s one of the premier downtown shopping destinations for tourists and locals alike. But it has had the same problems as most other retailers when it comes to catering to the men shoppers, they didn’t put enough of an emphasis on the men department. The men’s area was awkwardly divided into two disjointed areas on the first and second floors. I will give them credit, they were aiming to change this in 2008, but they had to hold up with a planned two-year multi-million dollar renovation due the terrible economy. But with the luxury sector bouncing back faster than other retail sectors, Neiman Marcus finally started the renovations late last year. First thing to finish up, the men’s department.

This Wednesday, April 24 Neiman Marcus will officially unveil the newly renovated men’s store. Now I personally haven’t seen it yet, I have to wait until Wednesday like everyone else but it’s said to be amazing. They took the two separate men’s departments and united them on the fourth floor and made it a more “clubby” atmosphere. It’s supposedly going to be the ultimate male chill zone with an already open bar area that serves classic cocktails and bar bites, and even has a flat-screen TV. They will also have some new labels, including Kiton and Ralph Lauren Black Label. Although menswear is 15% of their business right now, Neiman Marcus recognizes that percentage is growing and is trying to do as much as possible to cater to the men’s market. If you’re as excited as I am, come to the grand opening this Wednesday, April 24 from 6-9PM.

Photo: Roberta Zlokower